mott50-blog

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Name: Lauren Sundick

City: Manhattan, NY

Job: Dermatology Physician Assistant

Motto: The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams (Eleanor Roosevelt)

If you had to pick 3 fashion must haves for every woman, what would they be?

- A great little necklace that compliments every outfit. It can be layered with more interesting necklaces for special occasions, but something you can wear everyday.

- A classic black knit dress; to be worn at the office, in the evening, and even on weekend days.

- Perfect fitting jeans.  Mine are a dark blue, straight-leg style from J Brand, for others they may be bell-bottoms, jeggings, embellished etc. – fit is key!

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is simple, classic, and current.  I try to mix classic silhouettes and styles with more trendy accessories.  For example, my current go-to outfit is a gorgeous Joie blouse with straight-leg jeans, timeless flat black leather boots, understated diamond jewelry and a “trendy-for-me” Rebecca Minkoff chain-linked bag.

What 3 beauty products can you not live without?

- La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF

- Bobbi Brown Under-Eye Corrector

- Jo Malone Orange Blossom Cologne

What are your special interests outside of the office?  What are you passionate about?

I’m extremely passionate about my family.  My time outside the office is either spent trying a new restaurant with my husband or traveling to Minnesota or California to see my family.

Tell us a unique fact that very few people know about you!

My husband and I go to the exact same sushi restaurant every Friday night.  After a long week of work, I don’t have the energy to find somewhere new to explore.  So, we go to our favorite sushi spot two blocks from our apartment and order the exact same meal every week.  However, on Saturday evenings we almost always try a new restaurant.

My advice: stick with what you love, but don’t be afraid to try something new!

What does your daily sun protection and anti-aging regimen consist of?

As a dermatology PA, I am diagnosing skin cancers and using laser procedures to reverse sun damage every day. As a result, sun protection is a major focus of my daily routine.  I wear La Roche-Posay Anthelios Daily Moisturizing Cream with SPF every morning and apply a powder sunscreen throughout the day if I will be outside.  I wear sun protective clothing, especially while exercising outside.  I always wear a wide-brimmed hat – the Mott50 Billy style is comfortable, cute, and perfect for both everyday and the beach.  The Niki infinity scarf will be kept in my bag all summer to add extra sun protection when I find myself exposed to the sun unexpectedly. I love it because it can be worn as a traditional scarf to protect the chest (the “giveaway” area for aging, most women only protect their faces and the sun damage on their chest gives away their true age!) or twisted in any fashion to protect whichever part of the body needs sun protection in that moment.

As for my anti-aging regimen, it’s simple, I’m diligent with sunscreen, I consistently moisturize, I use a retinoid every night (Atralin, a brand-name tretinoin medication with hyaluronic acid in the vehicle to prevent irritation) and I regularly use antioxidant serums to fight free radical damage (the breakdown of collagen, among other things). Also, regular chemical peels help diminish pigmentation and even out the skin’s texture and tone.

What’s your ‘must-have’ item in the Mott 50 collection?  And how would you accessorize it?

My Mott 50 must-have is definitely the Connolly wrap dress. The lightweight material is so comfortable and the shape is a classic. I can wear this dress morning to evening – it looks great while seeing patients, enjoying post-work cocktails, or at brunch on Sunday. I like to jazz it up with a colorful bangle my sister (Brooke) bought for me in Thailand, a simple diamond necklace and pearl studs. In the winter, I’ll be wearing it with flat boots and in the summer with metallic sandals or fun, strappy heels. I will be wearing the royal color on my Italian vacation next summer!  As a healthcare professional, I appreciate that I can look chic while knowing that my skin is protected.

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SHINES A LIGHT BLOG SERIES: PART 2

Your name: Steph Opitz

Where you live: Manhattan

Your job: Publishing Consultant

Motto for life: Try it all, try it all.

If you had to pick 3 fashion must haves for every woman, what would they be?

Textured tights, a unique piece of vintage jewelry, and a tailored chambray shirt.

How would you describe your personal style?

My girlfriends joke that my style is glamour-jack—lots of sparkles and flannels.

What 3 beauty products can you not live without?

Tarte True Love cheek stain, Fresh Brown Sugar body polish, Lancome Oscillation mascara.

What are your special interests outside of the office?  What are you passionate about?

I’m a travel-enthusiast, an avid kayaker, and a serious concert-goer. Wow, that sounds kind of lame when typed out, I guess I would just say I like doing a lot of different stuff with a lot of different people.

What does your daily sun protection and anti-aging regimen consist of? Any occasional secrets or splurges to share?

SPF moisturizer and body lotion, and SPF tinted moisturizer on top. I recently splurged on Beautisol anti-aging self tanner, but I don’t think I’ve got the application process down to be seen in public post-use with anything less than a turtleneck and pants on.

Tell us a unique fact that very few people know about you!

I tend to be an over-sharer so most people who I talk to on a regular basis know everything, but, in this instance, I can brag to a wider audience that my co-ed street hockey team just won the championships!

What’s your ‘must-have’ item in the Mott 50 collection?  And how would you accessorize it?

The Black Christine Dress with textured black tights, brown leather knee-high boots, a brown leather belt, a neon-y colored cardigan, and funky oversized bangles.

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This is the perfect time of year to get away, go somewhere with loved ones, and relax. No matter where you’re off to for your annual holiday getaway, be sure to pack your Mott 50 must-haves. Add in a few extras and you’ve got a carry-on sized bag with all you’ll need for the perfect vacation!

Check out what we’d pack for our 3 favorite trips:

HITTING THE SLOPES

- For a great, cozy base layer, throw on a Pimmy longsleeve and Ash K leggings in our ultra-soft Bamboo jersey.

- Add in a J.Crew puffer vest and a Niki infinity scarf for extra warmth.

- Après-ski slide your feet into a pair of cozy indoor/outdoor slippers from UGG Australia.

BEACH BOUND

- Get some shade from a wide brimmed Billy Hat.

- Cover up with a Nicole Embroidered Tunic.

- Put on a classic pair of cat-eye sunglasses like these in tortoise shell from Marc by Marc Jacobs.

- Strap on these Tory Burch tribal sandals for a trendy alternative to flip-flops.

OUT FOR ADVENTURE

- Layer the ultra-lightweight Lulu windbreaker over a Katy tee, perfect for a hike!

- Ideal for the outdoors are the 100% cotton Dolan Cargo Pants they’re breathable, convertible, and full of convenient pockets.

- Throw in some Merrell hiking boots and a Patagonia daypack, and you’re ready to hit the trails.

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Some of the cities best bloggers are as in love with the new Mott 50 Infinity Scarf as we are! Check out how they styled up this winter season must-have.

No jacket required, Brooke at Fashism kept warm for a stroll in park in her Coral Mist Niki. It's the perfect pop of color for this basic black look.

Lifestyle blogger Jackie says our scarf is "genius" and "so soft!" She paired hers with a chunky knit dress and suede boots.

Jessica at Fashion Indie highlights the versatility of scarf, she features 6 ways to wear it. And last night, Jessica wore her Niki to an event in NYC, she was snapped for a street style story in Time Out NY!

Lauren from Born & Bread gives her look a color boost with our Niki in Grape. Love this pop of color, jewel tones suit her skin perfectly!

Beauty blogger Nicole wears the perfect street chic ensemble, brown and blush is one of our favorite winter color combos!

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Your Name: Amanda Weingarten

Where you live: Charleston, SC

Your Job: Fundraising at the College of Charleston - Assistant Director of Parent Giving Programs

Motto for life: "In order to truly love another, one most first love one’s self." And my dear friend and Mott50 co-founder Monique once gave me a pillow embroidered with her motto, “Smile and the whole world smiles with you.” It has helped me to succeed and I owe her a big thank you!

If you had to pick 3 fashion must haves for every woman, what would they be?

These should be: a signature color (mine is royal purple), a perfect strapless bra (Sassybax is my favorite), and a good quality leather handbag.

What fashion advice do you have to offer our readers?

I think everyone should have their color analysis done, men too! It helped refine my style and boosted my confidence, I never look in the mirror and think "Ugh, I look washed out!". I also have a 10-12 point test... here's how it works: 1 point per color/pattern, 1 point for make-up, 1 point for each piece of jewelry/belt/pleats/buttons/ruffles/decorative shoes/sunglasses/statement bag. Anything less than 10 points is underdressed, and anything more than 12 is over the top, it really works!

What 3 beauty products can you not live without?

When packing for a two-week trip to Tanzania my sister told me all I needed was sunscreen, a pressed powder compact, and mascara. Whenever I’ve had to pack light I always make sure I have those three things!

What are your special interests outside of the office?  What are you passionate about?

I’m glad you specified “outside of the office” because I love what I do! Traveling and spending time with friends. I love to ski, especially with Monique. The thrill of a perfect run through untouched powder is a little slice of heaven.

What does your daily sun protection and anti-aging regimen consist of?

Because Charleston enjoys approximately 300 days of sunshine a year, I never go without sunscreen. I put on Lubriderm with SPF 30 head-to-toe every morning before I get dressed and I use Cerave day moisturizer with SPF 30 on my face. When walking between meetings on campus I know I’m exposed, so I've invested in a few glamorous straw hats, like Mott 50's Billy. I’m at the beach or on a boat almost every weekend and when I’m close to the water I amp up my UV protection to SPF 50.

What's your 'must-have' item in the Mott 50 collection?  And how would you accessorize it?

Definitely the Katy crewneck t-shirt in white because the the bamboo fabric is sumptuously soft. I’ll pair it with a black leather pleated skirt and a big statement necklace. I’ll even wear it to bed with pj bottoms!

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With the holidays coming up and plenty of traveling ahead for us all, it’s time to start planning our 3 oz. friendly beauty bags. Don’t sacrifice your skin-care when you’re on the go, be smart and pack these 5 must-have towelettes to get gorgeous skin and a healthy glow (the safe way, of course)!

CLEANSE – Ponds Clean Sweep Age Defying Cleansing Towelettes – Start off by using this makeup remover and cleanser with an added age-defying bonus!

EXFOLIATE – Dr. Dennis Gross – Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel Packettes – Next, detoxify and exfoliate your skin with this daily peel, it will really brighten up your complexion.

MOISTURIZE – SK-II Facial Treatment Mask – Replenish your skin with vitamins, minerals, amino and organic acids, this little pouch holds the key to intense hydration.

PROTECT – Supergoop! SPF 30 Towelettes for Sensitive Skin – This is the most important step of all! Use these all-natural and paraben-free wipes on your face and body and protect yourself from harmful UV rays.

GLOW – Kate Somerville – Somerville360° Tanning Towelettes –And finally, give yourself a quick sweep with a self tanner towelette to get a perfect UV-free tan on the go!

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Strolling around Soho yesterday I realized that I was without shades!  How could that be?  I have a sunglass addiction.  But I guess the turn in weather put sunglasses on the back burner of my mind.  I was forced to use my hands to shield my eyes from the afternoon sun … and was quickly reminded  of the importance of year round sun protection, not just for your skin, but for your eyes.

Remember, just because we are getting into colder weather, doesn’t mean the sun’s rays are less harmful. In fact, UVA rays, which are known to cause premature aging and have been associated with melanoma and retinal damage, are almost equally intense and harmful year round.

Check out some of the season’s best sunglasses. All shapes, sizes, and prices represented … these shades are sure to add style and flair to your winter wardrobe! And will provide the valuable UV protection that your eyes need.

1) TEXTURE – House of Harlow 1960 – ‘Linsey’ – $195 – Black snake embossing makes the Cat-Eye shape even more intriguing.

2) AVIATOR – Halogen – Metal Aviators – $38.90 – This classic style gets a feminine update with a braided metal rim.

3) GEOMETRIC – Reed Krakoff – Eclipse Frames – $275 – These crystal octagonal frames evoke a chic futuristic look.

4) STRIPED – Marc by Marc Jacobs – Striped Sunglasses – $98 – Olive green is the perfect color for a striped shade, these are fun and quirky, but not over the top.

5) FOLDABLE – Prada PR12OS – $375 – A perfect pair of round tortoise shell glasses get a travel-friendly twist, these fold up to fit in your palm and even the smallest of handbags.

6) MERLOT – Ray-Ban ‘Highstreet’ - $129 – Merlot is one of the season’s biggest colors, and a great alternative to basic black.

7) ARTSY – Vogue Eyewear Artist Series IV by Knitta – $129.95 – These are an extra special addition to our list, each pair is a one of a kind artist creation. And what is more, $30 from every pair purchased is donated to OneSight an organization that helps bring better vision to people around the world. Fashionable, unique, and altruistic … these are a MUST!

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It's your last chance, our sale ends at midnight! Head over to www.mott50.com and start shopping, upon checkout enter Mott50FALLSALE for 20% off everything!

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Transitioning a wardrobe from Summer to Fall is always an exciting challenge.  Before I break out my sweaters and furs, I always try to get one more use out of my favorite summer pieces.  A few accessories turn the Mott 50 Leigh sundress into a completely new ensemble … perfect for a morning at the market, afternoon shopping, or an impromptu happy hour with friends.  I’m totally loving Country Western these days!

How to get this playful look: Shiseido Self-Tanning Gel to get bronzed without wrinkles, Laredo boots sold on zappos.com, Mott 50 Leigh dress in poppy, Links of London Friendship Bracelets look great stacked together, affordable gold hoops from Lauren by Ralph Lauren on Bloomingdales.com, and a forever cool Levi’s Jean Jacket.

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Keep your fragile skin from the suns harmful rays by carrying the shade with you wherever you go! Designer Tracy Reese matched sun parasols with swim wear and formal wear alike during New York Fashion Week's Spring 2012 runway show.

We are glad to see the word is out, it's time to start protecting ourselves from the sun, in style! For more sun protective fashion visit www.mott50.com.

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Clearing up all the questions you have ever asked about sunscreen, are these charts by Swiss Miss. Her visualizations of sunscreen and all of its confusing rules and need-to-knows, will definitely help make your next trip to the beach your safest yet. 

What she emphasizes most is that sun worshipers are not using sunscreen properly, so we think we are protected, but really, we are walking away from a day at the beach with a sun burn, wrinkles, or worse.

The biggest mistakes: not using enough sunscreen, not reapplying as often as needed, and not having a broad spectrum sunscreen to begin with; that means one with UVA and UVB protection. To break it down: if you are wearing SPF 15 sunscreen, without broad spectrum, and you lightly coated yourself, you will have approximately 15 minutes of protection from the sun's harmful rays.

Since reapplying every 15 minutes sounds like a real drag, I recommend starting your day by lathering up with broad spectrum SPF 50+. Reapplication is still necessary, but much less often.

The good news, Mott 50's sun protective clothing won't lose its effectiveness during the day because of swimming, sweating, etc. So you are getting full spectrum, hassle free protection!

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You're Invited to a SunBarth - Southampton trunk show featuring Mott 50! 

Come join us this Saturday August 13th from 10-7p.m. to get your hands on some Sun Protective Fashion. 

We start pouring the Rosé at 4p.m.

Hope to see you all there!

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Come visit us this weekend at SunBarth in Southampton for a Mott 50 trunk show. 

The event is from 10AM to 7PM. Join us for a glass of Rosé starting at 4PM. 

Hamptons.com penciled us into their calendar, you should too!

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Check out the Michelle Classic Contrast Tunic in the San Francisco Chronicle! Click here to read the full article featuring Mott 50. 

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Back in Nantucket! Come visit us at Sankaty Golf Club for the Mott 50 trunk show.

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MOTT 50 AT THE OFFICE

Check out what Cargill Sales Intern Jackie G. wore to work today, the Mott 50 Queenie skirt in the Abstract Floral print. Did I mention this skirt is on SALE?

She paired her Queenie with a hot pink cardigan, silver accessories, and Tory Burch sandals. She looks adorable!

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Dr. David Colbert is a dermatologist favorite of celebs like Kate Middleton and Sienna Miller. Read what he has to say about sun protective clothing in this GALtime.com article. 

Sun Protective Clothing is HOT by Kerri Winick

"Think your favorite tee does the trick when it’s steamy? Think again! A basic white shirt has an average UPF of 7, and that number falls to just 3 when the shirt is wet. (We’re burning up just thinking about it!) Thankfully, you can now find special sun protective clothing that has a higher UPF and is high on style. Many brands offer protection of 50+ and are treated with special UV absorbers. Celebrity dermatologist Dr. David Colbert says these threads are a must for anyone who spends time outdoors."

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